Health Benefits of DHA Algal Oil

Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid. These “good fats” are an essential part of each of the body’s cells. For many years, DHA was commonly processed from fish oil, but due to the adverse effects on the fish population alternate sources have been sought. What better way to accomplish this than to go where fish obtain it? Algal DHA oil, made from algae, offers the same benefits as fish oil without the gastrointestinal side effects.

Heart Benefits

When coupled with exercise and a well-balanced diet, DHA algal oil helps keep the heart going strong. Regular use can lower blood pressure and reduce heart rate. It also reduces levels of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, two key biomarkers of heart disease, as well as lowering triglyceride levels and vascular constriction helping to keep arteries unclogged.

Brain Benefits

As a major element of the brain’s cell membranes, DHA accounts for up to 97% of the omega-3 fats and up to 30% of the structural fats located in the gray matter. It helps improve both memory and cognitive functions. Improved psychomotor development and mental processing scores have been seen in infants and young children.

Eye Benefits

Like in the brain, DHA is also the most abundant omega-3 fatty acid in the retina. DHA algal oil helps to keep eyesight strong lowering the risk of vision issues as a person ages.

Other Benefits

There are plenty of other advantages to the regular intake of DHA algal oil. It has been shown to reduce agents of inflammation. It also increases the nervous system’s response to sensory stimuli. In pregnant women, DHA helps lengthen the gestation period and has positive effects on the mother’s mental state. Higher levels of DHA in the mother are passed onto the fetus offering a newborn all the same benefits.

There are multiple studies attesting to the many benefits omega-3 acids offer to persons of all ages. Since our bodies don’t make DHA efficiently, it’s important to obtain it in supplement form. With fish oil, environmental problems arise. This makes algal oil the more appealing choice as a sustainable source of DHA. Also, because it comes from algae and not fish, consumers are not at risk of ingesting ocean-borne contaminants. Vegetarians can also be at ease knowing there is an alternative to fish oil that offers the same benefits. As one of the most important nutrients lacking in American’s diets, DHA algal oil offers a great way to improve the health of everybody.